One would typically expect to be “shhhhh’d” at the library for making noise, but not at the Sonoma Valley Library on the days when the place turns into a local concert venue.
Library manager Lisa Musgrove refuses to take credit for the idea, but she certainly can take credit for doing it here in Sonoma. After a life-changing event, Musgrove landed in Sonoma about two and a half years ago and, as a former librarian in Port Angeles, Washington, she had seen music acts draw people to the library. Amazed with the sheer amount of musical talent not only in Sonoma Valley, but in the 50 miles or so surrounding us, she thought she’d give it a try. The events have been very successful, and Musgrove claims it’s the non-mainstream acts that actually draw the largest crowds, with anywhere from 50 to 70 folks attending the shows.
Musgrove says it’s part of the library’s mission to enhance people’s lives beyond books and bring in events that patrons “would not normally be exposed to.”
“It’s nice to be able to provide free music and to actually pay the musicians, as we all know it’s tough to make a living as a musician,” she says. Musgrove points out that the events would not be possible without the support of the Sonoma Valley Friends of the Library fundraising.
The next event is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, when 3 on a Match will lay down Delta blues in the intimate library setting at 755 West Napa St. The shows all start at 2 p.m. and are free. Donations are welcome. Some of the other upcoming events include the Sonoma Mountain Band, Hula Mai, Pickled Beats, Tone Bent and even an appearance and talk from Jonah Raskin.
For more information, point your browser to sonomalibrary.org.
James
Marshall
Berry
jmberry@sonoma?music.com
‘It’s nice to be able to provide free music and to actually pay the musicians.’
- Lisa Musgrove
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